Improving Road Conditions After Winter Weather

Recent winter storms have wreaked havoc on road conditions across various regions, particularly in Chicago and Virginia. Fortunately, commuters can expect improved travel conditions in the aftermath of snow and icy weather.

Chicago's Winter Weather Update

As reported by the Chicago Sun-Times, the greater Chicagoland area faced slippery road conditions on Monday evening due to recent snowfall. Fortunately, the National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts that road conditions will improve by Tuesday morning. With the snow cleared, commuters should remain cautious of potential ice on untreated surfaces.

Meteorologist Lee Carlaw indicated that while no significant snowfall is expected for the upcoming week, motorists should still be cautious as a little over a quarter of an inch of snow remained by Monday night, compounded by low temperatures in the high teens. Carlaw aptly described the upcoming snowfall chances as “conversational snow,” indicating minimal accumulation is expected in the city.

The NWS issued a winter weather advisory, initially set to end at 4 PM Monday but extended to 9 PM to encompass a lake-effect snow band impacting northern Cook County and DuPage County. Residents were warned that untreated surfaces could become dangerous as temperatures dropped.

Drivers in the region also faced challenges such as a collision involving a school bus and a Jeep, which highlighted the dangers of slippery roadways during winter weather. Additionally, poor conditions led to flight cancellations and delays at O'Hare Airport, with approximately 284 flights canceled and about 836 flights delayed.

Tips for Chicago Commuters

Brett Borchardt, a senior meteorologist, urged commuters to:

• Increase following distance behind other vehicles.
• Give road crews space to work effectively.
• Maintain cautious driving speeds to navigate slower travel times.

While road conditions are expected to improve, it's prudent for travelers to be vigilant in the days that follow, especially as temperatures fluctuate and further snow is anticipated later in the week.

Virginia's Winter Storm Impact

In Virginia, winter weather has also disrupted travel plans, leading to hundreds of crashes across the state. According to reports by WWBT, the Virginia State Police responded to significant incidents beginning late Sunday night, documenting approximately 248 crashes by Monday noon alone. The weather has largely caused treacherous driving conditions marked by snow and ice, primarily affecting southwestern Virginia.

Officials reported that even though some crashes may not be weather-related, the extent of the storm's effects has warranted ongoing travel advisories. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has strongly urged drivers to stay off the roads, citing the need for continued efforts to clear and make roadways passable in the coming days.

Important Steps to Stay Safe in Virginia

VDOT advised these safety measures to mitigate risks during winter weather:

• Limit all non-essential travel.
• Stay updated with real-time traffic conditions through resources like Virginia 511 and Google Maps.
• Allow extra time for travel and be mindful of road conditions, especially on major thoroughfares.

Conclusion

As we brace for the cold and unpredictable winter months, staying informed about road conditions is key for safe travel. Whether you are navigating through Chicago's rough patches or the treacherous terrains of Virginia, always prioritize safety by adapting to the unpredictable weather patterns. Stay cautious and drive safely!